Henry Wilkins

Henry Edgar Wilkins, 90, of Boissevain, Virginia, passed away on September 3, 2023, in Cleveland, Ohio. Born on October 13, 1932, Henry was a true family man who had a passion for educating others. He will be remembered for his kindness and his ability to bring light to those around him.

Henry was an avid camper, angler, and outdoorsman, finding solace in the beauty of nature. He cherished his time spent boating, camping, fishing, and gardening. Henry was also actively involved in the Bluefield State Alumni Association, where he fostered connections with fellow alumni.

Born to Grover Cleveland a Lucy Waller Wilkins, Henry had eleven siblings. He worked at his father's Tazwell County Virginia grocery store as a youth, learning the lessons of commerce and service.

A graduate of Bluefield State University, Henry earned a Bachelor's degree in Education. He furthered his educational pursuits at Case Western Reserve University, where he earned a Master's Degree.

Henry proudly served his country in the United States Army, where he achieved the rank of corporal first class before being honorably discharged. He went on to work at the United States Postal Services before obtaining a job with the Cleveland Board of Education in 1961. Henry served as a teacher and guidance counselor at East Tech, as well as principal at Patrick Henry and Lincoln West, and retired as Deputy Superintendent of Cleveland Public Schools in 1992.

In matters of faith, Henry worshipped at East Mount Zion in Cleveland, Ohio. His spiritual journey held deep personal significance to him and brought him solace.

Henry is survived by his four loving children Laurence, Marcus, Timothy, and David Wilkins. He was preceded in death by Mattie Lorine (nee Hairston) Wilkins, his wife of 63 years; brothers Carl, Earlie, Louis, Maceo, Willie, and John James Wilkins, as well as his sisters Cleopatra, Edna, Dorothy, and Franklin Delano Wilkins.

A memorial service for Henry will be held Thursday, September 21, 2023 at 12:30pm at Watson's Funeral Home in Cleveland, Ohio. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests contributions be made to the American Cancer Society in his memory.

Henry Edgar Wilkins will be dearly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. May he rest in peace, forever remembered for his kindness, love for nature, and dedication to education.